What is this lump on my penis?

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Worried about a spot, lump or growth on your penis? Here are some possible causes.

If you're worried, see your GP or visit a local sexual health clinic.

Pearly penile papules

These are small flesh-coloured lumps normally found on the head of the penis. They usually go all the way around the penis head in 1 or 2 rows.

These lumps are normal. They're not sexually transmitted or caused by bad hygiene. They don't cause symptoms and don't require treatment.

Fordyce spots

Fordyce spots are small yellowish or white spots on the head or shaft of the penis. Fordyce spots are sebaceous glands (tiny glands found near the surface of your skin) without hair follicles.

They can also appear on the inside of the cheeks or on the lips, and are present in 80 to 95% of adults. Fordyce spots are generally harmless and don't need treatment.

Lymphocele

This is a hard swelling that suddenly appears on the shaft of the penis after sex or masturbation.

It happens when the lymph channels in your penis are temporarily blocked. Lymph is a clear fluid that forms part of the body's immune system.

The swelling should soon subside and won't cause any permanent problems.

Lichen planus

Lichen planus is a non-infectious itchy rash of purple-red bumps that can affect many areas of the body, including the penis.

Genital warts

Genital warts are small fleshy growths or bumps that can appear on the shaft, and sometimes head, of the penis or under the foreskin.